We just ran out of time this week with AVC and everything else. But I promise we’ll have a video demonstrating how to use the new 4D Systems screens next week.

4D Systems has 4 new screens this week that work with your Raspberry Pi or Arduino. They come in two different sizes each, a 3.2" and 4.3". The Arduino versions come with an adapter shield and the Raspberry Pi versions come with a small adapter board. They communicate over serial and have a new drag and drop programming interface. You don’t have to sit there for hours programming tediously to get a slick graphical interface for your next project. Check the video on the product page (and the one above) for some examples of what they do. And be sure to check back next week for a special demonstration video as well.

We’ve got a new digital version of the Hakko FX-888 this week. The new FX-888D does away with the analog knob and has a nice digital readout for temperature. If you’re looking to upgrade your iron, you can’t go wrong with a Hakko.

Want to use one of our illuminated rotary encoders, but need a board for it? This simple breakout works with both the Red/Green as well as the RGB version. Just flip it over and use the side with the correct markings (either RG or RGB).

We also have a couple of new books this week. The first is a great book for teaching Python. Python for Kids isn’t just for kids, it’s for anyone that wants to learn Python, but doesn’t want to read a boring textbook. It’s got pictures, color, and is actually fun and interesting to read. Check it out.

Lastly, we’ve got a similar book, but for Scratch. Super Scratch Programming Adventure is a fun and colorful book which teaches you the basics of Scratch programming software. Both of these books are fantastic at approaching technical subjects from a completely different perspective.

Well, that’s it for this week. Check back next week for more new products and the demo for the new LCDs. Thanks for reading and see you then!

Comments
11 comments

I was so excited about these 4d systems screens I went and bought one direct from the mfg since sparkfun is already out of stock on the 3 incher. Had a small issue with my order (my mistake) so I skyped the guys down under and they got it fixed real fast!! They seem like a great company, looks like sparkfun has chosen a like-minded group of folks to do business with!!

I just purchased the Serial TFT LCD 4.3" with Touchscreen - uLCD43 last week from one of your distributors. Is there a change in the firmware from the older display to the new ones you are carrying or is it just now it comes with the extras for free?
Can’t wait for the tutorials!!

You guys definitely rushed this one out the door. Two sentences starting with “But…” in the very beginning, a spelling error directly thereafter “…so le’t see what we’ve got.” and over-modulation on the audio.

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I Love Hakko irons. I’ve purchased 4 of them - one of which was a 300$ unit - simply because I wanted to give them as gifts once I got mine. Anyone who buys one will not be disappointed. One question about the FX-888D: Why is there only an UP button for temp?

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